Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta Recipe

There’s nothing like the combination of tender shrimp, al dente pasta, and a buttery garlic sauce to make dinnertime feel extra special. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a quick and easy dish that brings gourmet flavor to your table in under 30 minutes.

this Recipe

I first discovered this recipe when looking for a way to elevate simple ingredients I already had on hand. It’s now one of my go-to meals for weeknights when I need something both satisfying and elegant. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Get ready to add a new favorite to your weeknight rotation. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is packed with flavor, quick to prepare, and perfect for feeding the whole family.

First, the dish is wonderfully simple yet deeply flavorful. The richness of the garlic butter sauce perfectly complements the sweet and tender shrimp, while a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a bright, herby finish.

It's incredibly quick to make. You can have this on the table in under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy evenings when you need something delicious in a flash.

Versatility is another reason to love this dish. It works beautifully as a light dinner on its own or pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad and warm bread for a more complete meal.

And finally, the recipe is a surefire hit for all ages. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or impressing dinner guests, the combination of shrimp, pasta, and buttery sauce is always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. A few well-chosen ingredients come together to create something truly special.

Shrimp: Opt for medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen both work well; just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking. Shrimp cook quickly and bring a naturally sweet flavor to the dish.

Pasta: Spaghetti is a classic choice, but fettuccine, linguine, or even penne work just as well. The pasta acts as the perfect base to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for this recipe. Minced finely, it infuses the butter with a rich, aromatic quality that defines the dish.

Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the seasoning of the dish. It creates a silky, luxurious sauce that clings to the pasta and shrimp.

Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the butter and garlic.

For this recipe, you’ll also need basic kitchen tools like a large skillet, a pot for boiling pasta, and a pair of tongs for tossing everything together.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Making this dish is a breeze, and the results are stunning. Follow these simple steps to create a pasta night to remember.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Aim for al dente, as the pasta will cook slightly more when tossed in the sauce. Reserve about a cup of pasta water before draining—this starchy liquid is key to achieving a cohesive sauce.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they’re pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add another 2 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water, whisking to create a smooth sauce.

Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlicky butter sauce. Add the drained pasta and gently mix everything together, ensuring the sauce clings to every strand of pasta. If needed, add more reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your desired consistency.

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Serve immediately and enjoy the irresistible combination of flavors.

Storage Options

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored for another meal.

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to rehydrate the sauce. Avoid using high heat, as it can overcook the shrimp and make them rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

The versatility of this recipe means you can easily adapt it to suit your preferences or ingredients on hand.

Swap the shrimp for chicken breast or thinly sliced vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers for a different protein or vegetarian twist.

Experiment with different herbs. Basil, chives, or oregano can add unique flavors while maintaining the dish's balance.

If you prefer a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for a subtle kick.

Try using whole wheat pasta or gluten-free options if you’re accommodating dietary preferences. Both work beautifully with the rich flavors of the sauce.

Feel free to add freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano cheese for extra depth, though the dish is plenty flavorful on its own.

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a recipe you'll turn to again and again. With its simple preparation and vibrant flavors, it’s sure to become a household favorite.

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